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Becoming a diamond appraiser requires a degree in gemology, certification from an appraisal organization, and experience in the retail sector of the jewelry industry. Internships with established appraisers are also recommended.
The practice of appraising diamonds and other fine jewelry requires proper training and education. From start to finish, the career path to becoming a diamond appraiser can take up to five years. Also, to be hired as a diamond appraiser, you must have a track record that reflects extensive experience.
The first career step in becoming a diamond appraiser is to obtain a degree in gemology from an accredited academic institute. This course of study usually takes several years to complete, depending on how many courses are taken per semester, and will ultimately result in a Gemologist (GG) or Gemological Association Membership (FGA) degree. There are several institutes in the US, UK, Europe and Asia that award these designations, and both are recognized worldwide. A GG or FGA program will provide education and training on gemstone identification and diamond grading. However, it will not be enough to start work as a diamond appraiser.
During or immediately after earning this degree, it will be necessary to obtain a position working in the retail sector of the jewelry industry, possibly counting towards credit towards an internship that several GG and FGA schools require prior to graduation. A retail position provides exposure to all aspects of the diamond and jewelry business, from construction to setting jewelry and valuations. Many employers will not consider a candidate for a diamond appraiser job without this prior experience.
During this time, it is important to obtain a certified appraiser certificate. This certification allows the scope of work to expand to include fine jewelry, including diamonds. To earn this certificate, you will need to join an assessment organization and complete the required coursework as outlined by the specific organization. Examples of appraisal organizations include the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers (NAJA), the American Society of Appraisers (ASA), the American Gem Society (AGS), and the International Society of Appraisers (ISA).
It’s difficult to become a diamond appraiser or a fine jewelry appraiser without the combination of an appraiser certification along with a degree in gemology. Many testing organizations and gemology programs offer distance courses in addition to traditional classroom teaching. This allows flexibility for those who don’t want to pursue this career path full-time or who don’t want to relocate.
To become a diamond appraiser, many experts recommend seeking out an internship with an established certified appraiser. Not only can an internship like this provide valuable hands-on experience, but also a good opportunity to learn the ins and outs of the diamond and fine jewelry appraising business. Other knowledge considered valuable by industry professionals includes some knowledge of jewelry making or countertops, as well as a background in fine art and jewelry making.
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